88 pages • 2 hours read
Gary D. SchmidtA modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
368
Novel • Fiction
Marysville, New York • 1960s
2011
Middle grade
10-14 years
Okay for Now by Gary D. Schmidt follows Doug Swieteck, a middle schooler who moves to Marysville, New York, after his father loses his job. At his new home, Doug meets Lil, befriends Mrs. Windemere, and begins learning to draw under Mr. Powell's guidance. Despite family struggles and suspicion due to his brother's actions, Doug finds acceptance at school, and the novel concludes with Doug performing in Mrs. Windemere's play and teetering on hope amidst uncertainty. The novel contains themes involving alcoholism, abuse, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Melancholic
Bittersweet
Inspirational
Heartwarming
Contemplative
37,869 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Gary D. Schmidt's Okay for Now is praised for its compelling narrative and complex character development, particularly the protagonist's growth. Critics commend its sensitive handling of difficult themes, though some feel the numerous subplots muddy the story. Overall, it's celebrated for its emotional depth and strong portrayal of resilience amidst hardship.
Readers who would enjoy Okay for Now by Gary D. Schmidt are typically young adults who appreciate poignant stories of personal growth, historical context, and resilience. Fans of Wonder by R.J. Palacio or Holes by Louis Sachar, which blend humor and touching narratives, will find this novel compelling.
37,869 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
368
Novel • Fiction
Marysville, New York • 1960s
2011
Middle grade
10-14 years
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